Josh Gates: “We Finally Found Moses’s Tomb!” Expedition Unknown
Josh Gates: "We Finally Found Moses's Tomb!" Expedition Unknown
And you know something that would really help to cement this as an historical event.
After all, someone this significant must have been buried with some real pomp and circumstance.
Okay, if there is a historical Moses, where is this guy?
I mean, where—where was he buried?
In the annals of history, few figures stand as tall as Moses, the prophet who led the Israelites out of Egypt, parted the Red Sea, and received the Ten Commandments atop Mount Sinai.
His legend has echoed through the ages, inspiring countless tales, movies, and debates.
But amidst the fervor of his legacy, one mystery remained unsolved:
the location of his final resting place.
Why did the Bible omit details regarding Moses’s burial site?
Can researchers find this relic and rewrite the narrative of ancient history?
Join us as Josh Gates leads an expedition to find the tomb of Moses.
Secrets of the Sea
In the calm waters of the Sea of Galilee, where stories from the Gospels paint a serene picture of gentle waves, a team of researchers—Josh Gates from the show Expedition Unknown—set out on an adventurous mission.
Their goal was crystal clear: to reveal the hidden secrets lurking beneath the surface and shed light on a mysterious structure that could hold the key to ancient history dating back to 1513 BCE.
Embarking on a thrilling journey, the team ventures deep below the waters of the Sea of Galilee in search of truth, guided by the enigmatic legend of Miriam’s Well.
But how does this mystical well connect to the quest for Moses’s final resting place?
According to Jewish lore, there’s a tale of a special rock that Moses struck, causing water to gush forth, as recounted in Exodus 17.
This rock is said to be the same one associated with a well believed to have journeyed alongside the Israelites until the passing of Miriam, a revered leader.
Now, if the well is intertwined with both Moses’s narrative and Miriam’s demise, why is it submerged in the Sea of Galilee when Miriam breathed her last elsewhere, at Kadesh?
Could there be a remarkable secret hidden beneath this ancient rock—perhaps the elusive tomb of Moses himself?
Determined to unravel this captivating mystery, the experts set forth to trace the origins of the small stones discovered in the Sea of Galilee, suspected to be linked to Miriam’s Well.
They theorized that these stones might have been transported into the sea by an ancient watercourse known as Yavne’el Creek, which once flowed into the Jordan River.
Using specialized equipment to scrutinize the lake bed, they stumbled upon a significant mound of rocks amidst the otherwise flat expanse of the lake floor.
Intrigued by this discovery, Professor Marco from Tel Aviv University was eager to dive in for a closer look.
Upon inspection, they realized that the pile of rocks wasn’t just a random heap, but rather a carefully crafted structure made of volcanic basalt rocks, each about three feet long.
What they found was a massive stone formation resembling a cone, built from rough, unshaped basalt cobbles and boulders.
Astonishingly heavy, weighing approximately 60,000 tons, this structure surpasses the weight of many modern warships.
It stands nearly 32 feet tall and spans about 230 feet in width, making it significantly larger than the famous Stonehenge in England.
After a thorough examination through scuba diving, the researchers made notable observations about the structure.
They discovered that it was composed of basalt boulders, some as large as 3.2 feet long.
Interestingly, the arrangement of these boulders seemed random, without any discernible pattern.
Furthermore, the rocks displayed natural features, showing no signs of human alteration such as cutting or chiseling.
Additionally, there were no visible walls or clear boundaries outlining the structure’s perimeter.
However, analyzing their discoveries further, the researchers confidently concluded that the structure was undoubtedly built by humans, likely on land, before ending up underwater.
They came to this conclusion because the closest place where similar rocks are naturally found was more than a mile away.
The fact that these rocks were deliberately brought to the site showed a clear effort by humans to construct the structure in its current underwater position.
Despite this clarity about human involvement, the purpose of the structure remained a mystery, leading to various guesses.
Some theories suggested it might have been an ancient calendar or a place for ceremonies.
More unusual ideas proposed that it could have been used for sky burials, where deceased individuals were left for vultures to consume.
What added to the mystery was the lack of any archaeological evidence indicating a nearby settlement or civilization.
This absence made it difficult to understand the context of the structure within the broader historical or cultural scene.
Therefore, its true purpose and origins continued to be a subject of speculation and investigation.
Some people even suggested that the structure might have been a massive monument with significant cultural meaning.
The researchers emphasized that the shape and composition of this underwater formation were nothing like any natural features usually found in the area.
Therefore, they were confident in attributing its creation to humans, comparing it to an ancient architectural wonder viewed through a geological lens.
Implications of the Discovery
The revelation of this sunken structure carries profound implications for our understanding of the Sea of Galilee’s past.
Its submersion suggests a time when the lake’s water level was lower than it is today, offering a glimpse into centuries-old environmental changes.
This newfound knowledge not only illuminates bygone eras but also provides valuable insights into the dynamic transformations that have shaped the region over time.
The structure itself is a marvel to behold, resembling a massive heap of rocks intricately stacked upon one another.
It evokes images of revered rock cairns found in diverse regions worldwide.
These formations often hold deep cultural or religious significance, serving as markers for burial grounds or sanctified spaces.
Yet, despite its striking resemblance to these known structures, researchers upon its discovery in the Sea of Galilee found themselves wrestling with uncertainty regarding its precise purpose.
The mystery surrounding its intended function only adds to its allure, igniting a passionate desire for further exploration and inquiry.
This thirst for knowledge extends beyond merely unraveling the mysteries of the structure itself.
It encompasses a quest to uncover the secrets of the ancient civilizations that once thrived in the region.
Seismic Exploration
Exploring depths with seismic surveys to unlock the secrets lurking beneath the murky waters, Josh and his brave team devised a clever plan: a seismic survey.
This cutting-edge method, used in geophysical exploration, taps into various physical principles like magnetism, electricity, gravity, and heat to uncover the Earth’s hidden mysteries.
At its core, a seismic survey relies on elasticity theory to understand how materials respond to seismic waves—extraordinary disturbances that travel through the Earth’s crust.
Seismic surveys have diverse applications, but they’re particularly vital in industries like oil and gas exploration.
In these fields, where uncovering underground treasures is crucial, knowing the geological makeup beneath the surface is key.
By sending seismic waves deep into the Earth and carefully recording their reflections, scientists can create detailed maps showing the layers of rock and other materials underground.
With state-of-the-art technology and determination, Josh and his team embarked on their seismic adventure, armed with seismic air guns—important tools in their quest for knowledge.
These impressive devices, resembling massive cylinders, were designed to release powerful bursts of compressed air into the depths below.
As these air guns fired, the calm sea surface erupted into activity.
The high-pressure bursts of air plunged into the water, creating shock waves that traveled through the seabed with incredible force.
Alongside the seismic air guns were strategically placed sensors, ready to capture the echoes of these seismic shock waves bouncing off submerged structures.
These sensors acted as silent guardians, diligently recording every subtle movement and reverberation in the underwater world.
As the air guns discharged bursts of compressed air, the sensors eagerly sprang to life, meticulously gathering crucial data to unravel the mysteries of the underwater domain.
Though the process was repetitive, it remained indispensable, ensuring that researchers assembled a comprehensive mosaic from varied perspectives and depths.
Amidst a symphony of aquatic sounds and serene moments, the team remained vigilant, attuned to the subtle nuances of the oceanic world.
Each blast of the air guns propelled them closer to unraveling the enigmatic secrets concealed within the ocean’s depths.
Days stretched into weeks as the team persisted in their noble endeavor.
Despite the formidable challenges posed by the vast expanse of water, their resolve remained unyielding, fueled by the prospect of unearthing new revelations.
As the final echoes dissipated into the abyss, signaling the culmination of the seismic experiment, the team experienced a blend of anticipation and relief.
The carefully collected data held the key to unlocking the elusive structure that had remained veiled in mystery for so long, offering glimpses into ancient narratives eagerly awaiting discovery.
Back in the laboratory, scientists analyzed the trove of data amassed from their underwater research with painstaking care.
They sifted through each ripple and reverberation, striving to unravel the concealed intricacies of the submerged structure.
Through extensive examination and analysis, they pieced together a comprehensive 3D representation of the submerged marvel.
This visual depiction provided a window into the past, offering insights into the structure’s age, composition, and potential significance.
As they delved deeper into the findings, the scientists gained a profound understanding of the submerged realm of antiquity.
What was once shrouded in mystery now stood revealed, its secrets laid bare for all to behold.
The seismic experiment didn’t just reveal the size and shape of the underwater structure.
It also dropped intriguing clues about its importance in history.
One fascinating possibility emerged: a potential connection to Miriam’s Well, a legendary water source steeped in ancient tales.
According to folklore, this well miraculously provided water for the Jewish people during their desert wanderings after escaping Egypt.
The seismic findings hinted at a link between the underwater structure and this revered well, deepening the mystery surrounding its origins.
A Divine Oasis in the Desert
As recorded in the Book of Exodus, during their journey through the Wilderness of Shur following the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea led by Moses, the Israelites faced a dire challenge.
They endured a severe lack of water for three grueling days, trudging through the barren landscape, parched and weary, searching in vain for relief.
Their luck changed when they reached Marah and found water.
But their hopes were shattered when it turned out to be bitter and undrinkable, worsening their desperation.
Turning to Moses for help, they sought a solution to their plight from their leader, who acted as a mediator between them and the divine.
Moses, hearing the desperate cries of his people, turned to God for help.
Following divine instruction, he took a piece of wood and tossed it into the bitter waters.
Then, in a remarkable display of divine power, the once-bitter water underwent a miraculous transformation, becoming sweet and revitalizing.
It offered the weary travelers a much-needed source of refreshment.
In Jewish lore, this water source was named Miriam’s Well, after Miriam—the elder sister of Moses and Aaron—honored as a righteous woman and a prophetess.
Miriam’s significance in the story of the Exodus goes beyond mere family ties.
She embodies the idea of divine sustenance and extraordinary intervention.
Miriam’s role in Moses’s life and the journey of the Israelites from Egypt is diverse and profound.
One moving instance is her vigilant protection of Moses when he was just a baby, hidden among the reeds along the banks of the Nile.
With Pharaoh’s cruel decree threatening Hebrew baby boys, their mother placed Moses in a basket and floated him down the river.
Miriam stood guard, ensuring her brother’s safety in the face of danger.
Her steadfast watchfulness and protective instincts demonstrate her deep love for Moses and her unwavering commitment to safeguarding his life.
Even amid danger, Miriam’s strength in tough times highlights her crucial role in shaping the early stages of Moses’s story.
Her actions serve as a symbol of determination and creativity, showing the strong will of the Hebrew people when faced with oppression.
By actively protecting Moses, she represents the Israelites’ refusal to obey Pharaoh’s harsh rules and their commitment to preserving their culture.
The Rock That Followed the People
According to ancient Jewish stories, Miriam’s Well provided water for the Jewish people during their difficult journey through the harsh desert for forty years.
But Miriam’s Well wasn’t just any water source—it was something divine.
It was a special rock that traveled with the Israelites in the desert.
Whenever they stopped to rest, the rock would settle, prompting leaders from each tribe to ask for water.
Miraculously, water would gush from the rock, quenching the thirst of the tired travelers.
Some believe the rock physically traveled alongside the Israelites.
Others think water flowed from it wherever they camped, showing how divine help was always present in times of hardship.
As the Israelites approached the end of their desert travels, right before reaching the Promised Land, they reached the Desert of Zin in the first month and settled in Kadesh.
It was here that Miriam, a cherished figure among the Israelites, passed away and was buried.
After her death, something significant happened.
Miriam’s Well, which had been a crucial water source for the community, dried up.
This sudden lack of water presented the Israelites with a major problem—a shortage of water in the desert.
The drying up of Miriam’s Well after her death was seen as a test of faith for the Jewish people.
It marked a shift from relying on Miriam’s leadership and divine help to needing a different kind of faith and trust in divine guidance.
Miriam’s Well became a visible symbol of this transition.
The people begged Moses to give them water, fearing they would die without it.
In response, God told Moses to take a staff and speak to the rock to bring forth water.
When Moses reached the rock, he did not speak to it as instructed.
Instead, he acted impulsively by striking it with his staff.
In his frustration, Moses even scolded the Israelites, accusing them of being stubborn and lacking faith.
Despite Moses’s deviation from God’s directive, the miraculous flow of water still occurred.
It provided relief to the thirsty people once again.
However, Moses’s disobedience carried consequences.
The act of speaking to the rock instead of striking it was meant to demonstrate complete trust in God’s instructions and the power of words.
By ignoring this command, Moses lost the chance to enter the Holy Land.
Faith, History, and the Search for Truth
The story of the Exodus is central to Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions.
It recounts the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt and their journey through the wilderness under Moses’s leadership.
Though typically placed in the Late Bronze Age, scholars have debated the accuracy of the tale’s historical details.
However, the recent discovery of the structure in the Sea of Galilee sheds new light on Bronze Age history.
It adds a fresh perspective to our understanding of ancient events and their connections to religious narratives.
Upon closer examination, researchers found compelling evidence suggesting that the mysterious structure dates back approximately 4,000 years.
This revelation excited the team, hinting at a possible link to the biblical Exodus and the legend of Miriam’s Well.
Detailed analysis of the structure’s 3D image revealed its immense size and intricate craftsmanship.
It clearly indicated human construction rather than a natural formation.
Despite uncertainties about its purpose, archaeologists were fascinated by the effort required to move its massive basalt boulders.
Some weighed over ninety kilograms.
Its location, far from the nearest natural basalt source, raised questions about the skills and resources of its builders.
While its exact use remains unknown, archaeologists believe it held significant importance for its creators.
The discovery sparked a multitude of questions.
Could this structure unlock long-buried secrets hidden beneath the waves?
The researchers acknowledged that their exploration was far from over.
Future phases would involve deeper investigation, possibly uncovering the contents of the structure itself.
Nabi Musa and the Final Mystery
For centuries, humanity has been drawn to the quest for Moses’s final resting place—a journey blending faith, history, and the relentless pursuit of truth.
Moses, or Musa in Islam, is revered in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
His life—from his rescue along the Nile to leading the Israelites out of bondage and receiving divine commandments on Mount Sinai—remains a timeless source of inspiration.
The search for Moses’s tomb transcends curiosity.
It reflects humanity’s desire for spiritual understanding and a deeper connection to the past.
According to legend, Moses died near the Jordan River after being denied entry into the Holy Land.
Investigating this belief, Josh traveled to Jordan to explore Nabi Musa, a sprawling compound named after the prophet.
This site has long been associated with Moses’s burial in Islamic tradition.
Upon arrival, Josh met with Tafi, an archaeologist and professor of Islamic studies.
Tafi explained that Mount Nebo, across the valley near the Dead Sea, has been linked to Moses’s burial since the fourth century.
Another Islamic belief suggests Moses prayed at his tomb on the eastern side of the Jordan River.
Descending beneath Nabi Musa, Josh stood at what Islamic tradition claims is Moses’s tomb.
The weight of history and mystery was palpable.
Sorting truth from legend proved challenging.
These stories—passed down through oral tradition and written texts—blend myth and history.
Nabi Musa, once a quiet sanctuary, now welcomes visitors from around the world seeking spiritual reflection.
Yet one question remains: how do we reconcile faith with scientific evidence?
For archaeologists, uncovering the past involves not only facts but also respect for belief.
As Josh departed Nabi Musa, he carried a sense of awe.
Some mysteries, he realized, may never be fully answered.
The disappearance of Moses’s tomb may itself be intentional.
Some scholars believe God concealed the burial site to prevent idol worship.
According to Deuteronomy 34:6, Moses was buried in a valley near Beth Peor, but no one knows the exact location.
Mount Nebo remains a sacred site, visited by popes and pilgrims alike.
A serpentine cross sculpture now stands atop Mount Nebo, symbolizing both the bronze serpent of Moses and the cross of Christ.
Though Moses’s burial place may remain unknown, the mystery serves a deeper purpose.
It reminds humanity to seek faith, humility, and understanding beyond physical proof.
From the depths of the Sea of Galilee to the sands of Nabi Musa, the search continues.
Moses’s legacy endures—not in a tomb, but in the beliefs and stories that shape human history.
What do you think about the quest to find Moses’s resting place?
Thanks for watching, and we’ll see you in the next one.
